Uninsured drivers across the UK should be subject to significantly heavier penalties from the justice system than are typically seen at present, one motoring expert has claimed.

Neil Greig, director of policy and research at the Institute of Advanced Motorists, said the biggest problem with the present system appears to be that courts across the country are not taking the issue of uninsured motorists seriously enough.

He commented: "Some people are saying 'the chances of being caught are fairly low, I'll risk it, because even if I am caught, I'll end up paying less than if I actually paid my premiums'."

Currently young drivers are paying premiums of up to £3,000 per year, but many courts are handing out fines of just £250 and three points for this offence.

Graeme Trudgill, head of corporate affairs at the British Insurance Brokers Association, told listeners to the BBC Money Box podcast earlier this year that the issue of drink-driving is also one that continues to require serious attention.

He noted that in many cases, people may be unaware that their insurance could be invalidated if they are pulled over for this offence.

Find out more about the Shell fuel card and start saving now.

Posted by Sarah Godfrey